The police are again warning people to “be vigilant regarding deceptive social media accounts impersonating Government officials.”

The accounts have been an issue since last year, with scammers making fake accounts purporting to be Ministers, MPs and in some cases, even former Ministers, and contacting people via private messaging, often trying to get money from people under the guise of an alleged ‘United Nations Democracy Fund.’

A police spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service continues to advise members of the public to be vigilant regarding deceptive social media accounts impersonating Government officials.

“These fake social media profiles are being used to contact individuals and make demands of money for alleged Government initiatives and proposals.

“Residents should be aware that this is a scam and are advised to verify any online messages they may receive claiming to be from a member of parliament – by calling the Government of Bermuda on 295-5151.

“Ask to speak with a Department of Communications representative regarding the supposed online proposal or initiative before divulging any personal information.

“Anyone with any information regarding the individual[s] creating or using these fraudulent social media accounts is asked to contact the main police telephone number 295-0011 or the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline 800-8477.”